How to Earn a Probation Degree

Submitted by Samuel Homes on Monday, Mar 10th, 2014

The criminal justice degree programs are actually ideal for those mid-career professionals within the fields of psychology, children’s services, family services, social work, sociology, and psychology. Since professionals in such fields are mostly exposed to the criminal justice system, they need to complete a criminal justice degree or a probation degree that will serve as an ideal way for them to gain valuable knowledge that they use on the job. Probation degree can help an individual qualify for the advancement in the field.

The probation degree assesses the purpose and use of custody and its effects on the lives of the offenders, the types of prisons, and the newest innovations in the probation service. Students are given the opportunity to evaluate the criminal courts and gain understanding and knowledge on how the Probation Service actually works with victims. This degree program is also designed to offer career development for the Probation Service Officers as well as to those who want to be in the Probation Service.

The Educational Requirements
Educational requirements for those probation officers actually vary from every state, but majority of states require a person to have at least a bachelors degree in criminal justice. Probation officers mostly interact with different individuals, so they need to have good communication skills. Also, since most of their clients may be anxious, stressed or even openly hostile, a composed and calm demeanor is a requirement.

Those who want to become probation officers must also complete some certification programs that are sponsored by state governments or the federal government. Apart from completing such basic requirements, they also have knowledge of the federal and state laws, good computer skills, excellent interpersonal skills, good writing skills and strong listening skills.

Bachelor’s Degree and Beyond College
Those who aspire to become probation officers are needed to have at least bachelor’s degree, which in most cases will take 4 years. Most commonly, the degree is in criminal justice, psychology, or social work. Education for those probation officers may also extend beyond college. Even when they have attained a probation degree, they also need to attend training courses that are mainly designed for the field.

Some additional hours of study may be necessary in order to complete the program. Such course covers some related topics like fines and restitution, the casework relationships, criminal justice system and court reports. After the completion of the degree or program, they will obtain certification within the field.

The Work Environment Upon Completion
After students have completed the probation degree, their work environment differs on their job duties. But most of them will do a combination of field work and office work. In the office work, they will typically experience a climate-control working environment. In the field, they will experience major challenges. This job requires them to make quick decisions, document their activities and deal with unpleasant people.

Being a probation officer is not actually easy due to the challenging nature of work. Because of the range of skills that are required, a probation degree is of paramount importance.

Are you ready to pursue a criminal justice career? Get information on programs in your area and online using our criminal justice degree finder at the top of this page. ↑